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Antioxidant and Behavioral Effects of Canine Health Supplement in Dogs
Author(s) -
Talbott Shawn,
Chevreau Nathalie,
Barnett William
Publication year - 2015
Publication title -
the faseb journal
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.709
H-Index - 277
eISSN - 1530-6860
pISSN - 0892-6638
DOI - 10.1096/fasebj.29.1_supplement.922.12
Subject(s) - tbars , catalase , medicine , placebo , antioxidant , thiobarbituric acid , food science , oxidative stress , zoology , lipid peroxidation , chemistry , biology , biochemistry , alternative medicine , pathology
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the antioxidant effects of an herbal dietary supplement blend (LifeVantage Canine Health) on markers of oxidative stress and owner perception of pet behavior. METHODS Eighty dogs were followed for 60‐days in a double‐blind, placebo‐controlled prospective study. Owners were required to sign an informed consent to participate in the study. Dogs were randomized into Canine Health supplement (CH; n=40) or Placebo (P; n=40) administered once daily. CH is a chewable flavored tablet containing an antioxidant herbal blend (Milk Thistle, Bacopa, Ashwagandha, Green Tea, and Turmeric), plus fish oil and type II collagen. The matching placebo was a look/taste‐alike product without the active ingredients. Thiobarbituric Acid Reactive Substances (TBARS) and Catalase were analyzed before and after supplementation. Owners completed a questionnaire assessing disability, cognition, energy level, social behavior, and skin/coat quality (Function Score; FS). RESULTS Seventy‐six dogs completed the study (Avg. 8.6 years old and 54lbs BW). Catalase was increased by 21% in CH, compared to an 11% decrease in P (32% difference between groups). TBARS was reduced 33% in CH, compared to only 24% in P (9% difference between groups). FS improved significantly in CH within 30 days, with no change in P. Cognitive function trended towards improvement in CH, while decreasing in P. CONCLUSIONS Dietary supplementation of dogs for 60‐days with Canine Health resulted in a significant improvement in overall owner perception of pet behavior, as well as notable trends for an increase in catalase, a reduction in TBARs, and improved cognitive function. These results demonstrate an important wellness benefit of reducing oxidative stress in dogs.